Port Antonio Jamaica
Luxury Hotels and Destination

A Gem of a Destination

Port Antonio is a small luxury hotels destination that was glamorized by Hollywood during the 1940’s and 50’s. Picture the likes of Errol Flynn being washed up on the sandy shore realizing that he has just arrived in paradise. It still is paradise and the elegance of the elegant small hotels experience in Port Antonio combined with idyllic surroundings will leave a lasting impression.

Port Antonio, the capital of Portland Parish, an area that includes the Blue Mountains, has breathtaking scenery, rich fertile soil and a penchant for eco-friendliness so that this gem of a destination will continue to be paradise for years to come. Port Antonio is where you can enjoy delightful outdoor activities, experience Jamaican culture and history and re-energize yourself as you receive the pampering you deserve while staying at one of the many luxury small hotels in Port Antonio.

Port Antonio History

Few people knew of the existence of Port Antonio, a well kept secret, until Lorenzo Dow Baker started the banana trade in the late 1800’s. Recall the Jamaican folksong sung by Harry Belafonte “Day-O,” about dock workers loading the boats with bananas and wanting to go home after a long night. These same boats brought wealthy tourists from America and before long Port Antonio (“Porty”) was no longer a quiet little community. It became the hot spot for the rich and famous. Hollywood movies further popularized it during the 1940’s and 50’s, drawing national attention to this jewel of luxury small hotels destination. Port Antonio is now known around the world as a Jamaican getaway for all types of travelers, especially luxury travelers who are seeking authentic Jamaican hospitality.

Port Antonio’s cultural background is a combination of Spanish, African, native Indian and now expatriates from around the world, especially the English. In 1517 the Spanish brought slaves to Jamaica, many of whom later escaped or were released from Spanish rule, becoming known as Maroons, the name derived from the Spanish word “cimarrones,” meaning “wild ones.” In time these African descendants intermingled with the native Taino Indians, their cultural heritage now possibly the most prevalent and well-known “Jamaican” cultural group. Their influence is evident in the music, art, and fashion, all recognizable as uniquely Jamaican.

Port Antonio Luxury Small Hotels

Jamaica is known for its casual island attitude, relaxingly hospitable surroundings and scrumptious food. Picture yourself enjoying a morning cup of Blue Mountain coffee on your boutique hotel veranda overlooking the crystalline turquoise waters of the Caribbean as your breakfast is expertly prepared using nothing but the freshest ingredients. Listen to the birds singing in the lush palm forests or watch the hummingbirds sampling the nectar from the colorful flowers just outside your elegant small hotel's window. This is truly a Port Antonio luxury small hotel experience. Your every desire is attended to as you focus on relaxation, recreation and rejuvenation. Elegant décor in calming hues, fine linens and soothing music add to the pleasure you will encounter when you elect the superior accommodations offered by small luxury hotels. The expert personal attention makes your holiday unique!

Port Antonio Beaches

A Port Antonio vacation while staying at one of many luxury small hotels would not be complete without spending some time relaxing on the beach, listening to the waves roll onto the shore. The beaches in Port Antonio offer a variety of venues depending on the type of surf conditions you are looking for. It goes without saying that the emerald waters of the Caribbean will mesmerize you, so be sure to use plenty of sunscreen and drink plenty of water to avoid sunburn and dehydration. Consult with the concierge of your elegant small hotel about equipment rentals depending on the water activities you intend to enjoy.

Port Antonio Nature Adventures

There are numerous ways to enjoy nature while visiting Port Antonio and its surrounding area. If you appreciate marine life and want to meet some curious tropical fish the crystal clear waters of Port Antonio beckon you. Divers can explore the coral reefs and ocean walls which are home to fabulous sponge formations and larger ocean fish. The visibility is at least 60 feet, making the stingrays, rainbow fish, eels and other open water fish easily viewable. The concierge at your luxury small hotels can give you the inside story on equipment rentals and reliable dive shops offering certification programs or refresher courses.

If you prefer to catch the fish rather than play amongst them, Port Antonio also has its share of desirable game fish. Day trip charters are available so you can have your picture taken with a barracuda, sailfish or marlin. The Jamaican International Blue Marlin Tournament is hosted by Port Antonio each fall, and fishermen from all over the world attend. When you book your luxury small hotel getaway, inquire about the annual date of this tournament; it’s a great experience for anyone in the search of the ultimate marlin.

Bird watching is the perfect way to experience the variable topography in and around Port Antonio as well as enjoy the many species of beautiful, colorful birds to be found. In spring and fall many hundreds of migratory birds will visit this area. You can see at least four species of brightly colored hummingbirds, particularly the Streamertail Hummingbird, Jamaica’s delightful national bird. The shoreline and mangroves are the natural home to a large wading and water bird populations.

If romance is in the air, consider spending some time at the Blue Lagoon (or the “Blue Hole,” as it is known by the local people of San Antonio). Here you will find a gorgeous cove surrounded by lush vegetation and fed by many underground mineral springs. Local folklore will tell of exotic sea monsters living in these deep waters, but Jacques Cousteau descended to 200 feet and found neither a monster nor reached the bottom of the lagoon. The wonderful allure of this romantic setting has inspired many visiting couples to exchange and renew their wedding vows. A day at the Blue Hole followed by a romantic evening at your choice of elegant small hotels is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Port Antonio Places of Interest

Port Antonio’s delightful Musgrave Market is filled with activity especially on a Saturday, which is the most important market day. Leave your luxury small hotel early in the morning and take a leisurely stroll around the market you will find Port Antonio’s true local culture with many stalls selling everything from freshly caught fish, to local produce, meat and well priced handicrafts and souvenirs.

The Marina at Port Antonio opened in 2002 offering a real glimpse of 21st century luxury and convenience to the many yacht owners and charter operators. The beautifully protected harbor with an exquisite view is a great place to relax, enjoy Port Antonio’s scenery and some good food. Your luxury small hotel concierge will be able to direct you to the Marina offerings if you’re interested in boating activities or fishing trips.

Fort George was built in 1729, overlooking the East and West Harbors. The British used the fort to defend themselves against foreign invaders. Early Jamaican stonework is evident in the large 10 foot thick walls which protected soldiers during the First World War. Port Antonio’s Titchfield High School is now housed in what was once the barracks.

Once the Marina was constructed, the Railway Station seemed to be forgotten. This representation of Victorian architecture was built in 1896 and today serves as the offices of the Portland AIDS Committee. While most visitors travelers overlook this Port Antonio location, it is most definitely worth a visit, from both an educational and architectural perspective.

Something not to be missed is the natural beauty that only Mother Nature can provide when she created the many waterfalls in and around Port Antonio. Somerset Falls has a gondola ride which takes you to the pristine cascade located in the rainforest. The concierge at your Port Antonio luxury small hotels will be able to assist you in purchasing tickets to these attractions. Smaller, lesser known descents such as Nanny Falls, Scatterwater Falls, McKenzie Falls and White River Falls provide excellent hiking opportunities for the adventurous. The deep water pools of Reach Falls are great for diving, and the Mandingo Cave just a short half mile hike up river through unsullied rainforest has a whirlpool in which you can wade and lose yourself in your surroundings. Make sure to pack a few snacks from your elegant small hotel so you’re not parched or hungry once you’ve found your secluded spot.

Port Antonio Ecotourism

In a world that becomes ever more conscious of the need to protect and sustain the environment, Port Antonio strives to create as little negative environmental impact as possible. When planning your Port Antonio visit consider groups and organizations that belong to the Portland Environmental Protection Association. Many fisherman on the local beaches offer eco friendly tours of the area. The people of Port Antonio are very conscious about the effects of tourism and carefully protect their beloved town. Many Port Antonio luxury small hotels in the area take their own steps to lessen their carbon footprint, promoting “ecotourism” within their environment.

Port Antonio Cuisine and Dining

Casual or smart, the choice is yours in Port Antonio. Great Jamaican jerk is readily available at the beachside stalls and eateries, where bare feet will not be noticed. If ambiance and sophistication are your preference, Port Antonio will not fail to please. You may enjoy traditional Nouvelle Caribbean cuisine by romantic candlelight while sitting on your boutique hotels terrace with a breathtaking view or sample the New World cuisine with a fantastic Port Antonio harbor view. Perhaps you can visit the local Port Antonio market and select the freshest ingredients for a meal prepared by the expert staff at your elegant small hotel. Better yet, let them know what you’re craving and have them do the shopping. The best part of eating in San Antonio is that the food is always fresh and the restaurants’ chefs make every attempt to use local produce in their cooking from fruits to vegetables, game and of course, fish.

If you leave your Port Antonio luxury small hotels after an early morning start, consider stopping by one of the many delightful local bakeries or local vegetarian cafes for some wonderful aromatic take away food. Jamaican patties or a delicious goat curry will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy a cold Red Stripe to take away the heat from the hot spice and you’re ready for another bite.

Port Antonio – A Luxury Experience

When in paradise, you deserve to enjoy the pampering and sophistication that luxury small hotels provide. The beautiful sunsets, the delicious food, the exquisite beauty of Port Antonio that surrounds you when accompanied by the personal attention to detail that only elegant small hotels can offer, leave you with the feeling of a fantasy fulfilled.